Aupouri/Karikari fire ban downgraded

A restricted fire season is now in force for the Aupouri/Karikari Rural Fire District, replacing the total fire ban implemented earlier this year. The decision follows a similar move by the Far North District Council last week.

The change in status to a restricted fire season means that although the total ban has been withdrawn, fire permits will still be required before igniting any fire in the open until further notice.

Deputy Principal Rural Fire Officer for the Aupouri/Karikari Rural Fire District Mike Sullivan said today recent rain plus a short to long term forecast indicating a similar weather pattern had encouraging the decision to downgrade the fire alert. The change in status applied from midnight today (05 March).

Exceptions to the requirement for a fire permit were gas barbeques, purpose designed solid fuel barbeques and incinerators with spark arrestors.

Fire permits could be obtained by inquiring at any Far North District Council Service Centre.